and my real estate is actually fairly liquid, if i listed at the right price (which I don't intend to, since I plan to hold forever, but if I did) i could sell fairly quickly. 

If not, I'd strongly recommend staying in the city for a weekend, driving around to different areas that you're looking to invest in and just getting a feel for the zip codes that you'd like to invest.I'd also like to pass along this zip code breakdown done by Doug Skipworth and Dean Harris (from Crestcore) to give you a better idea of which areas to look for deals and which areas to avoid: https://youtu.be/cl69pb2DvEo?

Any idea who got the exception? 

Hello Tyler,For a more short-term strategy, I would consider holding off on Refinancing Property 2.

A good PM can steer you to the areas that perform the best and are in the most demand.If you rely on a sales agent, they may not have any idea what makes a good rental and could steer you in the wrong direction. 

Wondering if anyone has any ideas on options for me.

It’s hard because all I want is cash flow even if it’s $500 and hold for the appreciation. 

I've been talking with my real estate agent and have an idea of what ill do.

The city put my building permit on hold until I hire a new GC.

Would it be a good idea to file the claim with the new insurance company for the roof?